Cerebral cortex
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The cerebral cortex, also known as the cerebral mantle, is the outer layer of neural tissue of the cerebrum of the brain in humans and other mammals. It is the largest site of neural integration in th
Lateral view of cerebrum showing several cortices
Diagram of layers pattern. Cells grouped on left, axonal layers on right.
Micrograph showing the visual cortex (predominantly pink). Subcortical white matter (predominantly blue) is seen at the bottom of the image. HE-LFB stain.
Cortical blood supply
Central nervous system
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The central nervous system is the part of the nervous system consisting primarily of the brain, and the spinal cord. The retina is also technically part of the CNS. The CNS is named so because the bra
Schematic diagram showing the central and peripheral nervous system of a human
Dissection of a human brain with labels showing the clear division between white and gray matter.
Different ways in which the CNS can be activated without engaging the cortex, and making us aware of the actions. The above example shows the process in which the pupil dilates during dim light, activating neurons in the spinal cord. The second example shows the constriction of the pupil as a result of the activation of the Eddinger-Westphal nucleus (a cerebral ganglion).
Reflexes may also occur without engaging more than one neuron of the CNS as in the below example of a short reflex.